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Cruise Ships in Glacier Bay

Covid-19 Update:

Due to impacts to travel caused by the novel coronavirus COVID-19, Glacier Bay is pushing back the start of its visitor services season to July 1. Please contact your cruise provider for information regarding your specific trip. We will update this page as new information becomes available. More details in this press release.

A cruise ship approaches Margerie Glacier.

Most visitors to Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve spend a day in Glacier Bay on large cruise ships as part of a longer cruise originating at a major west coast city. It is an amazing day cruising through the best of Alaska. The spectacular scenery and wildlife of Glacier Bay make it a highlight of any Alaska cruise. The ship travels into the heart of the Fairweather Mountains for a trip into the ice ages. Watch for icebergs and calving glaciers. Scan the shorelines for wildlife...brown bears, mountain goats, sea otters, sea lions, harbor seals, bald eagles, and a variety of seabirds are regularly seen.

What to Expect

You will receive a copy of the park map/guide in your stateroom the evening before your arrival in Glacier Bay.

Cruise ships typically spend a full day (9-10 hours) in Glacier Bay including a stop at a major tidewater glacier.

National Park Service park rangers board the ship to provide a narrative about important aspects of the visit, give special presentations about the park, kid's activities, staff an information desk, and answer all of your questions.

A variety of displays, and hands-on materials to enhance your visit and connect to the amazing world of Glacier Bay.

Arriving by Cruise Ship?Our "insider's guide" for cruise ship passengers will help you get the most out of your Glacier Bay day.

See also:

To make reservations on a cruise ship, see your travel agent.

The National Park Service manages vessel traffic (including cruise ships) in Glacier Bay to protect natural and cultural resources, provide for a range of visitor experiences, and promote visitor satisfaction and understanding. To learn more, and view a list of authorized cruise lines, see our commercial businesses page.

Glacier viewing is a highlight of any visit to Glacier Bay. Join ranger Adrianna and experience the spectacle and excitement of calving tidewater glaciers.

Duration:

6 minutes, 34 seconds

Become a Glacier Bay expert!

Glacier Bay Ranger Audio Series
Get the most out of your cruise visit!Enjoy these exclusive interviews with park employees on a wide range of fascinating topics. Bears, birds, glaciers, whales, wilderness, science, etc.